§ Sir Trevor SkeetTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how much money is spent annually on ultrasonic gallstone crushing equipment; and where in the south-east these machines are located.
§ Mr. FreemanI have been asked to reply. Extra-corporeal shock wave lithotripters were used originally for treating kidney stones. With assistance from the Department of Health, Trent regional health authority is carrying out an evaluation of the use of a lithotripter in the treatment of gallstones.
110WWe are aware of one lithotripter located within a National Health Service hospital in the south-east which might be used to treat gallstones. This is at St. Peter's hospital in London. There are also facilities at private sector hospitals.
We have no details of the prices paid for these machines, since these are confidential between the buyers and sellers.